This project aims to engage students in understanding the scientific process and its significance in current societal contexts. Through hands-on activities and critical analysis, students will explore how scientific integrity is challenged and upheld in today's world. By collaborating with community partners and creating public awareness campaigns, students will apply their scientific knowledge to real-world issues, fostering critical thinking and effective communication skills. Through reflection and self-directed learning, students will build a deeper connection to the scientific enterprise and its role in shaping informed citizens.
Learning goals
Students will develop the ability to critically evaluate scientific information, recognizing biases and inaccuracies in media representations of science. They will enhance their communication skills by creating and presenting a public service announcement that addresses scientific misinformation. Through collaboration with peers and engagement with community partners, students will deepen their understanding of the scientific process and its role in society, while also reflecting on their personal connection to scientific integrity.
Standards
[Next Generation Science Standards] 9-12.AF.8.5 - Communicate scientific and/or technical information or ideas (e.g. about phenomena and/or the process of development and the design and performance of a proposed process or system) in multiple formats (i.e., orally, graphically, textually, mathematically).
[Next Generation Science Standards] 6-8.AF.8.5 - Communicate scientific and/or technical information (e.g. about a proposed object, tool, process, system) in writing and/or through oral presentations.
[Next Generation Science Standards] 3-5.AF.8.5 - Communicate scientific and/or technical information orally and/or in written formats, including various forms of media as well as tables, diagrams, and charts.
Competencies
Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Products
Students will create a Public Service Announcement (PSA) that addresses the issue of scientific misinformation and disinformation. This PSA will be informed by their analysis of current events and scientific studies, and it will incorporate their understanding of the scientific process and integrity. Throughout the project, students will engage in collaborative group work to design and execute a public awareness campaign, utilizing various media formats to effectively communicate their message. The final product will be shared with the school community, fostering a broader discussion on the importance of accurate scientific communication.
Launch
Begin the project with an engaging "Science in the News" workshop where students examine recent articles on scientific discoveries or controversies. Facilitate small group discussions to identify biases and evaluate the accuracy of scientific communication. Introduce the essential question, "What does it mean for something to be true, scientifically?" and encourage students to connect this inquiry to the current events they analyzed. This launch will set the stage for exploring the role of scientific integrity and the impact of misinformation.
Exhibition
Students will host a "Science Truths and Myths" exhibition, inviting community members, including the panel of defunded scientists, to engage with their public service announcements. Each group will present their PSA, showcasing their understanding of scientific integrity and communication. Interactive stations will allow visitors to participate in debunking flawed studies, fostering a dialogue on scientific misinformation. The event will culminate in a panel discussion where students and scientists discuss the implications of scientific manipulation and the importance of maintaining rigorous scientific standards.
